In this powerful and emotional conversation, Jewish music icon Yaakov Shwekey opens up about the evolution of Jewish music, the responsibility of an artist, and the deeply personal moments that shaped his life and career. From unforgettable camp memories and behind-the-scenes studio stories to the creation of his upcoming massive Shabbos project, Shwekey reflects on legacy, inspiration, and the transformative power of music. He shares raw stories about loss, fatherhood, kindness, and how music can lift broken hearts—from hospital rooms in Israel to Shabbos tables around the world. Music producer Donny Gross joins to give a rare inside look at the creative process behind their most ambitious project yet: a multi-hour Shabbos experience meant to reconnect families to song, tradition, and joy. If you love Jewish music, appreciate authenticity, or just need a dose of inspiration—this episode is for you.   This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors:   ► PZ Deals - Download the app and never pay full price again! https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp   ►Blooms Kosher   Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide.   https://bloomskosher.com     ►Banana Blast Rentals   Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions. https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh   ► The Kichel Collection It's here just in time for Chanukah🥳 The Kichel Collection 5! Available at your favorite Judaica store  or get it here! 👇 Feldheim(20% off Chanukah Sale!): https://feldheim.com/the-kichel-collection-5   Amazon: https://a.co/d/7gGIVoJ   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka   https://pushkapp.cc/meaningful     ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com   ►Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years!   Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/JFKHH   ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp     https://www.townappliance.com     https://bit.ly/Townappliance whatsapp    ►  ReKindle   This film presents the powerful, deeply personal accounts of two survivors of the Café Rimon double suicide bombing in Jerusalem. This documentary is a tribute to the lives lost, the resilience of those who survived, and the enduring human capacity to rebuild—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Through Nochi Krohn's and Ovadia Waxler's story, viewers witness the lasting impact of terror and the extraordinary strength required to keep choosing life, day after day. Exclusively available via Meaningful Minute Plus: https://plus.meaningfulminute.org/programs/rekindle-black-firday-teaser-website-fd8c10

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Rabbi Elchanan Shoff (Los Angeles, USA) and Rabbi Michal Weichbrod (Yehuda, Israel) for a rare, honest, and passionate conversation about one of the most charged topics in the Jewish world today: Do Jews belong in America—or is it time to move to Eretz Yisrael? Together, they dive into: 🇺🇸 The spiritual role of Jews in America 🇮🇱 The mitzvah and meaning of living in Israel 🧠 How to make decisions based on Torah, not fear 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Raising children, chinuch, army service, and communal responsibility 📜 What Chazal, Rishonim, and Gedolim really say about Aliyah 🔥 The tension between idealism and practical reality This is not a political debate. It's a deep, thoughtful exploration of Hashem's ratzon, Jewish destiny, and how to live a life of purpose in today's world. If you care about Klal Yisrael, if you've ever wondered about Aliyah, or if you just want to hear two sincere, passionate voices hash out a big question—this episode is for you.     This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide. https://bloomskosher.com   ►Banana Blast Rentals   Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions. https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka   https://pushkapp.cc/meaningful     ►Givat Hashalva   Givat Hashalvah is a new, vibrant, Torah-centered community rising in Givat Ze'ev, only 20 minutes from the heart of Yerushalayim.   https://go.lyo.group/4rAkXCN     ► Lalechet   We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.   https://www.lalechet.com   ►Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years!   Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/JFKHH ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp   https://www.townappliance.com   https://bit.ly/Townappliance whatsapp ► ReKindle A new documentary exclusively on Meaningful Minute Plus   Coming Dec. 13th https://plus.meaningfulminute.org/programs/rekindle-black-firday-teaser-website-fd8c10

GET MEANINGFUL MINUTE PLUS RIGHT NOW FOR 50% OFF! mmplus.org In this eye-opening conversation, Nachi Gordon sits down with Zvi Gluck, founder of Amudim, for one of the most important and raw episodes we've ever released. From drug use and gambling in our schools, to secrets hidden behind closed doors, to real stories of crisis, denial, healing, and hope — Zvi pulls back the curtain on what's really happening in our community. We discuss: — How common drug and alcohol use truly is — The rise of gambling addiction among teens — Why prevention MUST start earlier — What yeshivas still don't understand — Abuse, denial, and the cost of silence — The lifesaving impact of proper education — Real stories of families on the brink — and those who found healing — What parents need to know right now This conversation is honest. It's uncomfortable. But it's necessary. If you're a parent, educator, community member — or simply someone who cares — you need to hear this. For more information about Amudim: https://amudim.org/ Join December 7–8 the Unite to Heal 36-hours livestream: https://unitetoheal.com/ This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher   Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide.   https://bloomskosher.com     ►Banana Blast Rentals   Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions. https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh ► The Business Organizer The Business Organizer is a game-changing resource for entrepreneurs who have big vision but feel stuck hitting the same roadblocks. If you know what you want to achieve but feel overwhelmed, misaligned with your team, or like the business is running you—not the other way around—this is for you. If you're ready to regain control and scale with confidence, reach out for a free 15-minute consultation to see if Sruly is the right fit for your company's needs. Call or WhatsApp 347-939-9959 https://wa.link/5sxy1e Email [email protected] For testimonials from real entrepreneurs, visit SrulySchonfeld.com   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka    https://pushka.cc/meaningful    ►  Eishet Chayil Eishet Chayil — The Woman of Valor is a new book by Rabbi Yossi Marcus that brings King Solomon's classic poem to life through the stories of 24 remarkable Jewish women — from Sarah and Miriam to Esther and beyond. Drawing on millennia of Jewish scholarship, especially the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the book celebrates women of faith, courage, and wisdom. Each verse is paired with contemporary artwork by Israeli artist Lia Baratz, making the book both educational and inspirational for readers of all ages. Dedicated to the women of Nahal Oz who were killed on October 7, 2023, it stands as a tribute to Jewish women of valor throughout history. Already in its second printing, Eishet Chayil is an ideal gift for Bat Mitzvahs, brides, wives, and mothers. Available at https://www.eishetchayil.com and https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/ Use code MM20 for 20% off when checking out on Kehot.com.   ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com   ►Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years!   Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/JFKHH ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp     https://www.townappliance.com   https://bit.ly/Townappliance whatsapp    ► Nafshi    A musical evening with Shulem Lemmer, Benny Friedman, Joey Newcomb, Yehuda Green and Eli Marcus: This is Nafshi! 7th of December at Kings Theater! https://colelchabad.events/mm

In this gripping and deeply honest conversation, Shmelke Diamond opens up about his unlikely path—from a traditional Long Island Jewish upbringing to discovering Chabad as a teenager, navigating a lonely and self-taught journey into observance, and ultimately becoming a proud Satmar chasid. Shmelke shares powerful stories of identity, family tension, spiritual searching, and the moment he realized he had to choose between two worlds. He talks about the kindness that drew him into the Satmar community, his struggles with chronic illness, and how disability reshaped his understanding of purpose, humility, and faith. Whether you're religious, secular, curious, or anywhere in between, this episode is a raw and inspiring exploration of what it means to find yourself—and to stand by what you believe, even when the world pushes back. This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher   Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide.   https://bloomskosher.com   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka    https://pushka.cc/meaningful      ► Banana Blast Rentals   Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions. https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh     ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp     https://www.townappliance.com     https://bit.ly/Townappliance whatsapp    ►Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years!   Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/JFKHH     ►  Ketubah At Ketubah.com, every Kesubah is designed with care, blending timeless beauty with texts that are fully halachic, including RCA and Sephardic versions. Our team collaborates with rabbanim and mesadrei kiddushin to ensure each document is accurate and accepted without question. Choosing Ketubah.com means you arrive at your chuppah with peace of mind, knowing your Kesubah is both beautifully crafted and halachically sound. https://ketubah.com/meaningful-minutes/?utm source=Podcast&utm medium=Clickthrough&utm campaign=meaningful-people-podcast   ►  Eishet Chayil Eishet Chayil — The Woman of Valor is a new book by Rabbi Yossi Marcus that brings King Solomon's classic poem to life through the stories of 24 remarkable Jewish women — from Sarah and Miriam to Esther and beyond. Drawing on millennia of Jewish scholarship, especially the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the book celebrates women of faith, courage, and wisdom. Each verse is paired with contemporary artwork by Israeli artist Lia Baratz, making the book both educational and inspirational for readers of all ages. Dedicated to the women of Nahal Oz who were killed on October 7, 2023, it stands as a tribute to Jewish women of valor throughout history. Already in its second printing, Eishet Chayil is an ideal gift for Bat Mitzvahs, brides, wives, and mothers. Available at https://www.eishetchayil.com and https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/ Use code MM20 for 20% off when checking out on Kehot.com.    

In this deeply emotional and honest conversation, Rabbi Yoni Fischer opens up about his journey, the vision behind his yeshiva, and the importance of meeting people with compassion, not judgment. From navigating generational pain to cultivating emotional health in the Torah world, Rabbi Fischer shares his thoughts on healing, marriage, parenting, community, and connection—with wisdom, warmth, and humility. ► Meaningful Minute Plus Meaningful Minute released its first-ever feature film: Homeless — a powerful story about exile, identity, and return. https://plus.meaningfulminute.org/   This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ►Blooms Kosher   Bring you the best Kosher products worldwide.   https://bloomskosher.com   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka   https://pushka.cc/meaningful      ► Magen Fund Adopt an IDF soldier for $180 and support our chayalim with essential daily and spiritual items.   https://israelmagenfund.org/kits/     ► Lalechet    We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.   https://www.lalechet.com   ►Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years!   Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/JFKHH   ► NRS Pay - Honest, clean credit card processing.   https://nrspay.com   ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp     https://www.townappliance.com   ► Faith It Till You Make It Join Rabbi Ari Bensoussan’s course on Bitachon sponsored by Censible Marketing! Your guide to keeping your faith in today's complicated world! www.Meaningfulminute.org/censible   ► Subscribe to our Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.     https://apple.co/2WALuE2   https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO Or wherever Podcasts are available!   Editor: Sruly Saftlas

In this deeply personal conversation, Mendel Mintz shares his journey of growing up in Crown Heights with a lifelong physical disability, building a life of community impact, and finding unexpected love with his wife, Miriam, a beloved special educator from Baltimore born with dwarfism. He opens up about their dream of building a family through IVF, the joy of being on the brink of shlichus together, and the unimaginable tragedy of losing Miriam to an extremely rare complication at the very height of their lives. Mendel reflects with searing honesty on grief, walking out of the hospital alone, wrestling with faith, and what it means to keep showing up for Hashem with real questions and no easy answers. He also shares how he's turning pain into purpose through Miriam's Library and Learning Center, a new educational hub in Baltimore dedicated to the children and values she lived for.    To honor Miriam's legacy and help bring this life-changing project to reality, you can make a meaningful difference here: https://www.charidy.com/Miriam/mm   This episode is for anyone carrying loss, living with visible or invisible challenges, or searching for a way to transform heartbreak into a life of meaning.   This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors:   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka    https://pushka.cc/meaningful    ► Banana Blast Rentals   Bringing exciting entertainment for all your occasions.   https://bananablasts.com https://wa.link/i4qlgh   ► Lalechet     We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.    https://www.lalechet.com   ►  Ketubah At Ketubah.com, every Kesubah is designed with care, blending timeless beauty with texts that are fully halachic, including RCA and Sephardic versions. Our team collaborates with rabbanim and mesadrei kiddushin to ensure each document is accurate and accepted without question. Choosing Ketubah.com means you arrive at your chuppah with peace of mind, knowing your Kesubah is both beautifully crafted and halachically sound. https://ketubah.com/meaningful-minutes/?utm source=Podcast&utm medium=Clickthrough&utm campaign=meaningful-people-podcast   ► Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years!   Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/JFKHH     ► Town Appliance   Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp   https://www.townappliance.com https://bit.ly/Townappliance whatsapp      ► Dream Raffle Win a brand new and fully furnished $1,200,000 apartment in Yerushalayim!    Use Promo code MPP for $10 off and to receive double tickets!   https://thedreamraffle.com/